EMPIRE JR B READY FOR PLAYOFFS

9 OF 10 POINTS OVER THE WEEKEND NOT ENOUGH TO OVERTAKE NH

 

Albany, NY....The Empire Jr B team came :50 seconds from winning the overall point title in the League but couldn't hold on against the top Empire Jr Monarchs Sunday. The 3-2 OT loss ended the 'Core's bid to win the point championship for 2008-9. It was a tense weekend of hockey for all the teams making up games from Dec. The playoffs are going to be great with any number of teams in position to win it all. With Elmira forfeiting the two games Thursday night and Friday morning, the first game was against Green Mountain Friday night. The first half featured good two way hockey, finally with :13 second left in the first period, Zach Lokey connected on the PP to give the 'Core a 1-0 lead at the half. Green Mountain would take a 2-1 lead in the 2nd half. With 8 minutes left in the game, Chris Joseph converted a Marcus Mitchell pass to score short-handed and tying the game 2-2. With 5 minutes left, Mike Cambria converted on the PP to give the 'Core a 3-2 lead. Frank Saad completed the scoring, also scoring on the PP to give the 'Core a 4-2 win. "Special teams came through big time" stated Coach Nastasi. In the Bay-State game, Bobby Amrhein gave the 'Core a 1-0 first half lead. The 1-0 lead held up all game and with less then a minute to go, the 'Core scored on the PP as Zach Lokey connected. The final of 2-1 was a well earned 2 points. Sunday's game was a great match between two good teams. The Monarchs scored first, but Kevin Kavanagh scored on the PP to make the score 1-1. The first half ended 1-1. Zach Lokey made the score 2-1 scoring on the PP early in the 2nd half. The team played well, but couldn't hold off the Monarchs as they scored with less then a minute to go on a penalty shot and won it in OT.

 

Apple Sauce.....Injured center Billy Pascalli will be back for the playoffs......Alumni Mathias Lange, Sr. (RPI) honored on Sr. night this past Saturday.....

'CORE DEFEATS ROCKETS 6-4, OVERCOMES 4-0 DEFICIT

 

LONG BEACH, NY......It was the best and the worst --all in one game as the Jr B Selects played an exhibition with the Jr B Rockets (MET). "The first period was the worst we played all year" stated Assistant Coach Larry Nastasi. "We weren't focused at all and there was no emotion"added Nastasi. The Rockets took a 3-0 lead after the first period and the team was out of sync. Players were getting in scuffles and not one player played well. The second and third periods were different. The 'Core totally dominated the pace and territory in scoring (6) unanswered goals erasing a 4-0 deficit along the way. Goals by Matt Kavanagh (2), Bobby Amrhein, Steve Romano, Dylan Scarpato (Game winner) and Scott Witmyer proved what focus can achieve. Again, it was the Green Line and Gold Line that was instrumental in the victory. On the tying goal, both Rob Molinaro and Mike Mascaro made great plays forechecking and creating turnovers. The Rocket's goalie was very good, the 'Core had numerous close in opportunities that were stopped. Scarpato's winner came with 2:38 left in the game. The 'Core swept all (3) games with the Rockets this season.

 

APPLESAUCE....The team plays at the Hitmen Thursday night, then at Marist College Saturday. Jesse Trap (Foot) skated in warm-ups and should be back by the weekend. Billy Pascalli is about 10 days away from playing again.....Coach Lazar honored by Islanders during Monday's game at the Coliseum. "I brought down Captain Kevin Kavanagh, who wasn't nervous at all, and his "toughness" made the live interview easier......After the game we met Penguin DF and ex-'Core DF Rob Scuderi.......

'CORE SWEEPS NJ HITMEN

 

LONG BEACH, NY---  The Junior B Empire team hosted the NJ Hitmen Jr B team this past weekend in exhibition games. The Hitmen will be in the League next season. With Zach Lokey and Kevin Kavanagh playing with the A team and Frank Saad and Andrew Balzafiore sidelined, the 'Core was pretty short-handed. "Other players have to step up to the plate in these situations" stated Assistant Coach Larry Nastasi. In the Saturday game, Matt Kavanagh registered a Hat Trick to lead the way in a 9-1 win. Mike Mascaro, (2 goals), Billy Pascalli, Mike Brennan, Mike Cambria and Dylan Scarpato also lit the lamp.

Zach Gomiela stopped 30 of the 31 shots he faced in the game.

 

In the Sunday game, the Hitmen played much harder and had their full roster, so the game was much closer.

Billy Pascalli scored in the first period to tie the game at 1-1, in the second period, the 'Core took a 3-1 lead on goals by Dylan Scarpato and Mike Iacono. With the score 3-2 'Core, Pascalli scored an insurance goal to make it 4-2. Mike Smith and Mike Cambria assisted on the play. Smith scored into the empty net to make the final 5-3. John Layton played very well, stopping 37 of the 40 Hitmen shots.

 

APPLE SAUCE........Team split last week with the Wildcats. Losing Sat 2-0 and winning Sunday 4-3......

Team again worked with handicapped players at Freeport rink.........The boys will play Tri-State this weekend at Tri-State.......Team has clinched a playoff spot. Playoffs start March 6-7-8........DF Andrew Balzafiore recovering from tonsillitis at hospital, was enjoying time with nurse "Kitty". Details to follow...... DF Kevin Kavanagh scored first EJ goal in game at Monarchs.

 

 

'CORE SWEEPS BREWSTER, MOVES CLOSER TO CONFERENCE LEAD

 

BREWSTER, NY-- The Jr B team traveled up to Brewster Ice Arena to play their arch rival Brewster Bulldogs in a two game set this past weekend. Apple Core had lost a tough game the previous Sunday to Pittsburgh and needed to get back on track. Dillon Fox opened the scoring in the first period on assists from Matt Kavanagh and Frankie Saad. Kavanagh dug the puck out and made a great pass to the slot for the goal. Goals by Dylan Scarpato and Mike Mascaro gave the 'Core a 3-1 lead after 1 period of play. Goals by Empire League Leading scorer Zach Lokey and Kevin Kavanagh gave the team a 5-1 lead after 2. The final was 5-2 and a much needed 2 points. Mike Brennan tallied (3) assists in the game. Zach Gomiela played well in net for the 'Core.

 

In Sunday's tilt, the game was much closer. The first period was scoreless as the shots were 14 each. The 'Core took a 2-1 lead in the second period on goals by Zach Lokey and Mike Cambria. Frank Saad made the score 3-1. Brewster tied the score at 3-3 in the third, and with 3 minutes left in the game, Mike Cambria scored a PP goal on a Billy Pascalli assist to win the game. The final of 4-3 gave the 'Core a 4 point weekend.

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________

 

'CORE PLAYERS WORKED WITH HANDICAPPED YOUTH HOCKEY PLAYERS

 

PORT WASHINGTON, NY..... The Captains of the Empire Jr B team led the way in the 'Core's initiative to work with the community. On Jan. 3, Co-Captains Steve Romano and Kevin Kavanagh along with alternate Captain Matt Kavanagh went down to the Port Washington rink to work with Neil Robbins, Mike Russo and the LI BLUES. There were kids of all ages, and all situations. The players pushed chairs for kids that couldn't skate, helped with the goalies and saw first hand that some players, although physically handicapped, love the game just as much as they do. The parents of the players were very appreciative of the help and the team will help out more in the future."Mike and Neil run a great program for these players" added Kevin Kavanagh.

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________

 

'CORE ALL-STARS SHINE BRIGHT IN HOOKSET TILTS

 

HOOKSET, NH----The annual all-star event was held Jan. 19 at the Tri-Town ice arena in Hookset, NH. Hosted by the NH Jr. Monarchs, the day featured games with the Empire All-stars and a second game with the Empire Futures, and the two EJ games and a CHA all-star game. Ryan Frew and Sean Trembley did their usual great jobs in preparing for the event. The 'Core sent (6) all-stars tot he Empire game and (2) to the Futures game.

Goalie Zach Gomiela, DF Mike Smith & Kevin Kavanagh, and F's Zach Lokey, Billy Pascalli and Dillan Fox represented the 'Core proud in the all-star game. Lokey and Fox scored, Pascalli had 3 assists in the game, and all looked great. After the game I spent time marketing our all stars and school were interested. Zach Gomiela played great in the second half, allowing only 1 goal. The 10-3 drubbing of the National Conference was a result of great play and passing. In the Futures game, Dylan Scarpato and Kyle Zelanka represented well also. Scarpato got an assist and hit the post in the shootout. Other then the ride, it was a great day for Apple Core.

 

______________________________________________________________________________________

 

APPLE CORE JUNIOR B PLAYERS RECONIZED FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER

 

Zach Lokey was named the Offensive player of the Month of December and Kevin Kavanagh the defensive player of the Month. Both these great players have led the 'Core all year and have earned these honors. Both these players have promising futures ahead of them. Congratulations for the achievement.

 

APPLESAUCE.......   The injured list has only Dan Honovic on it. He will be back shortly......The 'Core plays the Wildcats this coming weekend at home.....

'CORE JR B SWEEPS SYRACUSE, TAKE OVER 1ST PLACE IN EAST DIVISION

 

LONG BEACH, NY.... The Jr B team, winners of 15 straight games now, ended the year 2008 by sweeping the Syracuse Stars and in the process took over first place from the Tri-State Selects, who had held first place for 4 months. The 'Core now is 23-2-2-1, good for 49 points. The 'Core is ranked 3rd in the country by Hockey Rankings. In the Saturday's game, the 'Core took an early 3-0 lead on goals by Dillan Fox, and two by Ron Kokas. Second period goals by Kevin Kavanagh, Matt Kavanagh, Zach Lokey and Chris Joseph gave the 'Core a 7-1 lead after 2 periods. Billy Pascalli added a  third period goal. Rob Molinaro had (2) assists in the 8-2 win. Zach Gomiela stopped 22 of 24 shots he faced. The 'Core went 2-3 on the PP and added their Nation leading 15th short-handed goal of the season.

 

In the Sunday tilt, the 'Core was not as sharp as Saturday. The first period was scoreless and with the score 1-0 Syracuse, Kevin Kavanagh scored on a great play on the PP. The second period ended 1-1 and in the locker room , the team needed to focus and prove they could be a championship team by taking over the game and dominating the third period. They did. Two PP goals by Dillan Fox and Zach Lokey gave the 'Core a 3-1 lead. Lokey and Prof. Scarpato added the insurance in a 4 goal third. The 5-1 win was the team's 15 th in a row. This includes two exhibition wins against MET teams. John Layton stopped 29 of the 30 shots he faced. Billy Pascalli had (3) assists.

 

With 16 games remaining in the regular season, the 'Core is on top in many statistical categories. We are # 1 in penalty killing, # 2 in PP (just 1 goal short of # 1), have 3 players in the top 5 scorers and 6 in the top 20, the best goalie tandem. John Layton has the best save percentage in the League. Zach Lokey is the leading goal scorer, Billy Pascalli the leading assist man, and Kevin Kavanagh, the leading scorer for defensemen. The team has already clinched a playoff spot and College coaches are calling about players.

 

APPLE SAUCE....Team had Secret Santa party and some of the presents were really funny......Thanks to Assistant Coach Larry Nastasi treated players to Pizza Party today......Team has 2 weeks off, and all players will be healthy when play resumes. Next opponent is league leader Pittsburgh, on the road......Other opponents in the last 16 games include Tri-State, Brewster, Wildcats, Monarchs and Rochester.

'CORE RIPS BREWSTER 9-4 IN WEEKNIGHT TILT

 

LONG BEACH, NY---

    Short players??? No problem for the very confident and high flying 'Core as they easily defeated arch rival Brewster 9-4 at Long Beach. With (7) regulars in the stands, Apple Core proved that less can still be equal. The new math engineered by Prof. Scarpato shows the more you subtract, the more equal a problem is. This new math has been adopted at such schools as Harvard and Yale. With the 9-4 win, the 'Core now has a (10) game winning streak and (21) wins for the season. Brewster has been playing good hockey and that showed in a very equal first period. With the score 1-0 Brewster, Dillan Fox scored off Frank Saad and Mike Mascaro assists. Zach Lokey scored short-handed, the team's League leading 14th of the year. The period ended 2-2, as Brewster scored a PP goal late in the period. The 'Core came out strong in the 2nd period, and this resulted in a Billy Pascalli goal on a Zach Lokey assist. CHA call-up Rob Dorgan scored the 4th 'Core goal off a Mike Smith assist. After 2 periods, the score was 4-2 'Core. The third period was all Apple Core. Ron Kokas started the barrage at the 4 minute mark off a Zach Lokey assist. One minute later Dillan Fox scored his 2nd goal of the game on assists from Saad and Mascaro. Two minutes after that goal, Ron Kokas notched his 2nd of the night on assists from Lokey aand Pascalli. Three minutes after that, Pascalli notched his 2nd of the night off an assist from CHA call-up Bill Freely. The barrage ended with another Lokey goal on assists from Kokas and Pascalli. Zach Gomiela stopped 23 of the 27 shots he faced.

 

Apple Sauce......The team plays in the Fitchburg showcase Friday, & Saturday this weekend. Opponents are Green Mountain, the tough Monarchs and the Baystate Breakers. These 3 games will complete all the team's games against the Eastern Conference......All-star picks will be announced Friday night at the showcase.....Zach Lokey was a Jr. A call-up Tuesday against the Hitmen and played very well.......On the injury front, DF Dan Honovic is day to day and ready to return, no other injuries to report.....The 'Core will begin it's volunteer program Dec. 19th working with disabled hockey players.....

The schedule thins out after this weekend with just 2 more games before the Christmas break at home vs. Syracuse and then the team comes back for exhibition games vs. the Hitmen before their big showdown weekend in the Steel City against the Penguins......Apple Core alum Mark Eaton (Pittsburgh) scored his first goal of the season. Mark was on the first 'Core Junior team in 1993-4.....The team will stop on it's way to Pittsburgh at the Saad farm. Players will milk the cows, feed the chickens, slop the hogs, and do other chores. The players will sleep in the barn and like Green Acres, will see what country living is all about......

'CORE SWEEPS TOUGH BUFFALO STARS 4-3 AND 6-1

 

BUFFALO, NY.....

 

    The ride was long and there was some good and bad this past weekend in Buffalo. After a long, long ride the 'Core played against an improved Buffalo Stars team. Dillan Fox opened the scoring 1:19 into the game, and when Billy Pascalli scored 7 minutes in to give the 'Core a 2-0 lead, it looked like the game would go our way easily. Give the Stars credit, they stormed back to take a 3-2 lead after 2 periods. Great leadership in the locker room by the captains became instrumental in the 'Core's total domination of the third period. Just 1:13 into the period, Dillan Fox converted a Matt Kavanagh rebound to tie the game. Only the Stars goalie saved them from a regulation loss. The game went into OT and again 1:13 into the OT, Zach Lokey scored the winner on a Billy Pascalli feed. In Sunday's fiasco, things were bound to be tough when the glass broke in warm-ups. Special teams were the deciding factor in this game. Rob Molinaro scored the team's 13th short-handed goal to tie the game at 1-1 and then 3 PP goals by Dillan Fox, Kevin Kavanagh & Ron Kokas gave Apple Core a 4-1 lead after 2 periods. Mike Cambria gave the 'Core insurance with a quick goal in the third period for a 5-1 lead. After the non-sense was sorted out, the remaining players quietly finished an ugly game. The team plays Brewster Wednesday at Long Beach 7:20 start time.

'JR 'B' EMPIRE SWEEPS NY COYOTES

 

LONG BEACH, NY---The Jr 'B' Empire team played host to the expansion NY Coyotes this past weekend at the Arena of Long Beach. The Coyotes are going through growing pains and are finding their first year very tough. This past weekend was a real tough one for the Coyotes losing both games by big scores.

In the Saturday 9-2 AC win, goals were scored by Matt Kavanagh (2), Dillan Fox (2), Mike Cambria, Frank Saad, Ron Kokas and Rob Molinaro. Mike Smith, (2) Billy Pascalli (2)Mike Cambria (2), Matt Kavanagh (2), and Dillan Fox (2) led the assist list. John Layton stopped 15 of the 17 shots he faced.

 

In the Sunday game, Dillan Scarpato scored his first 2 goals of the season in the contest. Zach Lokey (4), Frank Saad (2) Matt Kavanagh (2), and Mike Brennan (2) hit the stat pages. Kevin Kavanagh (3) Billy Pascalli (3), Mike Mascaro (2), Rob Molinaro (2), Frank Saad (2) led in assists. Zach Gomiela stopped 18 of the 19 shots he faced.

The team now has the week off before resuming practice after Thanksgiving. The 'Core next travels to Buffalo to play the much improved Buffalo Stars.

APPLECORE JR 'B' SELECTS  SWEEP SYRACUSE

RUN LEAGUE WINNING STREAK TO (5)

 

SYRACUSE, NY---- The Jr B team traveled up to the Indian Reservation this past weekend to play the Syracuse Stars. With John Mascaro and Mike Cambria driving the vans, we still arrived in one piece for the two game set. In the Saturday game, the first period was scoreless as the 'Core could not push one home although they had 19 shots on goal. Just 1:21 into the second period, Dillan Fox scored the 'Core's (10th) shorthanded goal of the season after great forechecking by Matt Kavanagh. Zach Lokey scored the 2nd 'Core goal on a Mike Iacono assist. With the score 2-1, Steve Romano scored the third 'Core goal on a scramble, Ron Kokas and Zach Lokey assisted on the play. Rob Molinaro and Frank Saad added the insurance in the third period. Ron Kokas assisted on both third period goals, giving him (3) for the game. Zach Gomiela stopped 25 of the 26 shots he faced. The 5-1 victory gave the 'Core 33 points for the season.

In the Sunday game, the 'Core came out storming the net. Twenty one shots were fired on net, and (4) goals resulted. A PP goal by Steve Romano, and goals by Dillan Fox, Rob Molinaro and Zach Lokey keyed the period. Kevin Kavanagh and Billy Pascalli completed the scoring in the 6-2 win. John Layton stopped 25 of the 27 shots he faced.

The 'Core plays the NY Coyotes next weekend at the Arena of Long Beach.

'CORE JR B BLOWS OUT AVALANCHE IN EXHIBITION (7-2)

 

LONG BEACH, NY---In a rare Tuesday night exhibition game at the Arena, the red-hot Jr B Empire Selects took on ex-Apple Core Junior A player and Coach Bryan Reilly's NJ Avalanche. The Avalanche, who play in the MET League are a top team in the League. Frank Saad opened the scoring in the first minute off a Dillan Fox assist. With the score tied 1-1, Fox scored on feeds from Saad and Matt Kavanagh. Late in the first period, on the PK, Billy Pascalli and Zach Lokey teamed up on a beautiful 2 on 1 to give the 'Core a 3-1 first period lead. The short-handed goal was no fluke, as Apple Core leads the Empire League with (9) short-handed goals. In the second period, the Avs made the score 3-2, but Matt Kavanagh answered the bell on a scramble to give the 'Core a 4-2 lead. Frank Saad and Dillan Fox assisted on the play. Kyle Zelanka added the 5th goal late in the period, banking a slap shot off the post and in. Zach Lokey assisted on the play. With the score 5-2 after 2 periods, the team has learned how to finish off the opponent and keep the clock moving with leads in the third period. Tonight was no different, as new 'Core player Zdenek Petras added the 6th goal on a Lokey assist. Petras will play on the CHA team. With (6) minutes left in the game, Rob Molinaro added the 7th and final goal on assists from Dylan "The Professor" Scarpato and Kevin Kavanagh. John Layton played the third period and stopped all (8) shots he faced. The 7-2 rout was the 'Core's 4th in a row the last 4 days, as the 'Core has outscored the opposition 29-6 over the (4) games. The team has not given up a PP goal in (15) games and only (2) all season in the League and (5) over-all in (32) games.

 

APPLE SAUCE.....Mike "The Kid" Mascaro will be giving boxing lessons at the Kavanagh gym each Thursday at 3 PM for all you boxing students. Mike boxes in the "Skeleton Weight" class......Bryan Reilly given tour of new locker room after the game......On the injury front, Ron Kokas is day to day with a hand injury, and Dan Honovic about 10 days from returning with a shoulder injury..... The team travels up to Syracuse to play the Stars this coming weekend......

EMPIRE JR 'B' SWEEPS WARRIOR SHOWCASE

OFFENSE A PLENTY AND STINGY DF LEAD THE WAY TO 3-0 SWEEP

 

HAVERHILL, MA.----The Apple Core Jr B team traveled up to the Warrior Showcase, played 3 League games and came away with 3 wins scoring 22 goals and only allowing 4 in the 3 games. The team was clicking on all cylinders and showed many scouts there are good young players at the 'Core. New players Dan Honovic and Ron Kokas joined the team and played like they were there all along. Player of the Month of October Dillan Fox led the way with 2 goals, with Zach Lokey, Billy Pascalli, Ron Kokas, Steve Romano and Mike Mascaro scoring the other five. Mike Cambria, Matt Kavanagh and Dan Honovic tallied 2 helpers apiece. John Layton played well in net. The 7-2 win gave the 'Core momentum for the rest of the weekend. The 2nd League game was against the Salem Ice Dogs. The offense was plentiful with many players getting into the act. Steve Romano (2), Dillan Fox (2) and Zach Lokey (2) goals each, led the way. The 'Core tallied (3) PP goals. Frank Saad 1 goal & (2) assists was a pest all night. Goaltender Zach Gomiela even recorded an assist in the game. The 10-2 win gave the 'Core a perfect Saturday. Sunday's game had the 'Core playing against the tough Valley Warriors. "The boys are playing the best team hockey I have seen in a while" stated Coach Lazar. 'I am very proud of the boys, and team play will only get better" added Lazar. In the Warrior game, the team was extremely well positioned all game, allowing only 14 shots for the entire game in a 5-0 shutout. John Layton recorded the shutout, the 4th in the League season. Frank Saad opened the scoring in the first half, scoring a shorthanded goal, the 'Core's 9th of the season. The first period ended 1-0 'Core. Matt Kavanagh scored on the PP on a 5 on 3 to give the 'Core a 2-0 lead. Goals by Cambria, Fox and Rob Molinaro sealed the deal.

 

Apple Sauce...Coach Nastasi showed all how to keep calm. The first time all season he yells at the refs, he gets tossed. We can't take him anywhere.......Team is # 1 in PK, with 97% kill rate, and 2nd in PP, with a 28% success rate.....Congratulations to the EJ team and Coach Cosentino, who got that 800 pd. gorilla off his back with a 3 win, 6 point weekend to get back into the playoff hunt. The team had recently made some personnel changes and the team is now totally focused and it's amazing how many scouts were at the locker room door this weekend. Great to see.....The team travels to Syracuse to play the Stars next weekend, but plays the NJ Avalanche on Tuesday night. Ex 'Core player Brian Reilly is a coach on the team.....New players Dan Honovic (DF) and Ron Kokas will add depth and experience to the young team. Both players are excellent players.....

    JR. 'B' TALLIES 2 TOUGH POINTS

 

LONG BEACH, NY----- Playing against the top team in the League is a big challenge, and for the 'Core it was a measuring stick at the 1/3 mark of the season. The team worked hard in practice all week, and was ready to take on Tri-State. The Selects feature 5-6 top players who take advantage of opponents mistakes and have ripped through the League so far. In the Saturday game, the 'Core came out hot and heavy and dominated the first period outshooting the Selects 15-5. Zach Lokey scored the 'Core goal in the first period on a Mike Cambria assist. With the score 1-1, the Selects took a 2-1 lead in the 2nd period on DF zone give-aways. Rob Molinaro tied the game on Frank Saad and Mike Mascaro assists. The Selects took a 3-2 lead into the third period, and the team pressed hard all during the third period. With :55 left in the game, Kevin Kavanagh tied the game on a point shot. The teams were very conservative in the OT, as the game ended in a 3-3 tie. "The team showed they can compete with anyone" stated Coach Larry Nastasi.

 

On Sunday, the game was very similar. The first period ended 1-1, the 'Core goal again coming from Zach Lokey. The team came out strong in the 2nd period, and only 1:03 into the period, Mike Cambria scored on a Tri-State giveaway. Forty eight seconds later, Mike Smith scored on a bullet point shot to give the 'Core a 3-1 lead. Billy Pascalli and Zach Lokey assisted. Mike Brennan scored off a scramble to give the 'Core a 4-2 lead. Mike Mascaro and Danny Kaplan assisted on the play. Tri-State tied the game in the third due to poor DF zone coverage and in OT scored to win the game 5-4.

 

"Some of our players must play better team hockey and understand that team play is more important then their own stats" stated Coach Lazar. "Immaturity is our biggest enemy right now, but these players will conform and be team players" added Lazar.

On the positive side the team showed that they can play with anyone and with a little more maturity can get it all done.
 

'CORE SWEEPS COYOTES IN THE WILDERNESS

 

POTSDAM, NY--- Talk about the middle of nowhere, well the Empire Jr B team went to parts unknown to take on the NY Coyotes in a two game set. The bus ride was 7 1/2 hours and with a great selection of movies on tap, the 'Core was ready for the two game set. The Coyotes are an expansion team in the League this year and had 4 wins coming into the weekend. The 'Core's PP has been very good lately, and in Saturday's game connected (6) times in the game. Goals in the game were scored by Billy Pascalli (2), Mike Smith (2), Frank Saad (2), Dillan Fox, Mike Cambria, Mike Mascaro and Danny Kaplan. Dillan Fox (3), Mike Brennan (2), Zach Lokey (2) and Matt Kavanagh (2) led the assist parade. Zach Gomiela recorded the shutout stopping all 29 shots he faced. The PP was 6 for 10 on the day and a shorthanded goal was also tallied. The 10-0 win was the team's 10th. of the league season.

 

On Sunday the Coyotes came out much stronger, and special teams were the story again. The score was 8-1, but (4) PP goals and (2) short-handed goals were scored. Mike Cambria deflected in a Kevin Kavanagh point shot on the PP to score the only goal of the first period. In the 2nd period, up 1-0, Billy Pascalli and Zach Lokey scored PP goals to give the 'Core a 3-0 lead. With the score 3-1, Dillan Fox scored short-handed on assists from Frank Saad & Kevin Kavanagh to give the 'Core a 4-1 lead at the end of the 2nd period. Third period goals by Zach Lokey, Billy Pascalli, Rob Molinaro and Mike Mascaro finished out the scoring. John Layton played well in net. All the injured players returned and played well.

 

APPLE SAUCE.....Thanks go to Kerry Zelanka for adding 1 1/2 hours to our trip home by detouring the bus through Utica NY.......Movie selection committee will be formed for next trip, as mutiny almost occurred with Henry's choices. "Great Oscar nominated movies such as Jack Ass 1 and Dumb and Dumber must be included" added Lazar.......Team wanted to know why there was a Chinese Buffet at every stop the team made.......All injured players returned and played well......Team prepares for tough Tri-State next weekend at home.......Congrats to the CHA team on their sweep over Virginia and to the EJ team on their split with the Breakers......Mouth guards will be needed on the bus next trip as John Mascaro's rock hard bagels almost broke 2 player's teeth. They must have been laying around for days......The team leads the League in penalty killing, and is second in PP efficiency.

'CORE JR 'B' SWEEPS NJ WILDCATS

 

MT. ARLINGTON, NJ---Apple Core Jr B traveled to NJ this past weekend to play the tough NJ Wildcats. The Aspen Ice rink is a very nice facility in central NJ. The 'Core had beaten the Wildcats in the Brewster tournament over Labor Day. In the first game, the Wildcats jumped out to a 2 goal lead in the first period. "We did not begin the game ready and focused" stated assistant coach Larry Nastasi. The period ended 2-0 Wildcats. In the second period, Zach Lokey got the 'Core on the board on a Billy Pascalli assist. Wildcat goalie Colin Lemay was great in net as he stopped many 'Core scoring chances in the 2nd frame. The game was tied at 2-2 after Kevin "The Sniper" Kavanagh scored on a wrist shot from the circle that found the short side. Mike Cambria assisted on the play. With 5 minutes left in the game, Lokey netted the winner after a great feed from Pascalli. The team shut down the Wildcats for the balance of the game for the 3-2 win. Zach Gomiela made some great 2nd and third period saves, allowing the 'Core to get the 2 points.

    On Sunday, the Wildcats would again take a 1-0 lead in the first period. On their first PP opportunity, Dillan Fox scored the tying goal on assists from Zach Lokey and Billy Pascalli. With the score tied at 1-1, Dillan Fox scored a shorthanded goal, the 'Core's league leading 5th of the season on an Andrew Balzafiore assist. With the score 2-1, Lokey scored on a Kevin Kavanagh assist. The score at the end of the 2nd was 3-2 'Core. The Wildcats pulled their goalie with 1:35 left and tied the score at 3-3 with 1:08 left in the game. The 'Core showed their character, as with :50 left in the game Balzafiore head manned the puck to Billy Pascalli at the middle of the red line. Pascalli deflected the pass to Mike Cambria tearing down the left wing. Cambria carried the puck into the zone on a 2 on 1 with Zach Lokey, and hit him with a perfect pass for Lokey to stuff it into the net. Cambria scored into the open net to seal the deal and a 5-3 win. John Layton played well in net.

 

Apple Sauce.....Injured players Frank Saad and Chris Joseph will return next week......Mike Smith (bruised knee) is day to day and is expected to play next weekend.......The 'Core plays up in Potsdam next week against the NY Coyotes.....Congrats to the CHA Jr B team in their sweep of the Pittsburgh Penguins......

EMPIRE JR 'B' GOES 2-1 IN MONARCHS SHOWCASE

 

HOOKSET, NH----  The Columbus Weekend showcase hosted by the Monarchs featured some good close games for all the teams concerned. The weather was really nice and a good atmosphere at the Tri-Town ice arena. The first game was against the Bridgewater Bandits and the 'Core scored early and often. Goals by Dillan Fox (2), Billy Pascalli (2), Matt Kavanagh, Steve Romano, Zach Lokey and Rob Molinaro led the 'Core to a 7-0 first period lead. Zach Lokey scored the 2 second half goals. Mike Cambria, Mike Smith, Dillan Fox, Matt Kavanagh, and Zach Lokey all added (2) assists each. The game ended 9-1 for the 'Core. Zach Gomiela stopped 24 of the 25 shots he faced. In the 2nd game, the opponent was the NE Falcons. The first goal of the game was scored by Dillan Fox on an assist from Matt Kavanagh. With the 'Core on the PP, Kavanagh fed Zach Lokey for a one timer and a 2-0 first half lead. The Falcons tied the score at 2-2 with 5:30 left in the 2nd half. "The team has shown many times that they can handle adversity" stated assistant Coach Larry Nastasi. With 4:21 left in the game, Dillan Fox scored on the PP to give the 'Core a 3-2 lead. Kevin Kavanagh assisted on the play. Fox scored an insurance goal which would be needed on a Billy Pascalli assist. The game ended 4-3, 'Core and it was relatively penalty free. John Layton stopped 22 of the 25 shots he faced. The final game of the weekend featured the tough Pittsburgh Penguins. The Penguins have many quick and smart forwards and play good team hockey. The 'Core DF was really tested in this game. With the Penguins leading 1-0, Matt Kavanagh knocked home a goal on a big scramble to tie the game at 1-1. Billy Pascalli gave the 'Core a 2-1 lead on an assist from Mike Cambria. The Penguins tied the score at 2-2, but with 5:53 left in the first half, Mike Smith scored from the point on a bullet, low slapshot to give the 'Core a 3-2 lead at the half. The Penguins scored the only 2 goals of the 2nd half for a 4-3 victory. The 'Core did battle hard the last 4-5 minutes trying to get the equalizer, but couldn't score. "The team showed character at the end, everyone positive and working very hard to get that goal" stated Coach Lazar. "We just ran out of time". The Penguins are a very good team and although AC lost yesterday, they learned a lot from the game about preparation and paying attention to the little things in the game. The 'Core next plays the tough NJ Wildcats this weekend in NJ. On the injury front, Chris Joseph and Frank Saad are about 2 weeks away from rejoining the team.

'CORE SWEEPS BUFFALO 10-1 AND 3-0 IN HOME OPENERS

 

LONG BEACH, NY--- The Junior B Empire team opened up their home schedule with a dominating weekend against the Buffalo Stars. Wearing their third jerseys, the 'Core totally dominated the game from beginning to end. In the first period, Matt Kavanagh scored the first and only goal of the first period on assists from Danny Kaplan and Mike Mascaro. The second period was all 'Core as they netted (6) goals. Goals were scored by Mike Mascaro, Frank Saad, Zach Lokey (2), Mike Smith, Billy Pascalli and Matt Kavanagh again. Lokey and Saad added third period goals. The lone Buffalo goal came on a 5-3 PP. Zach Gomiela stopped 21 of the 22 shots he faced.

    In the Sunday game, it was a much closer as both teams found scoring chances few and far between. The score was 0-0 going into the third period. At the 14:02 mark, Dillan Fox scored on the PP, on assists from Billy Pascalli and Mike Smith. That goal held up and with 4 minutes left in the game, Dillan Fox scored short-handed to make the score 2-0. Pascalli assisted on the short-handed tally. Matt Kavanagh completed the scoring with another short-handed goal late in the game. John Layton stopped all 19 shots he faced for the shutout. The 2 wins bettered the 'Core record to 5-1-1 in the League.

 

APPLESAUCE..... Injured players Frank Saad and Chris Joseph should be back for next weekend......The 'Core plays Bridgewater, the Falcons & Pittsburgh next weekend.......Congrats to the CHA team on their 4-0 start to their season and to the Jr A team on their big win over the Monarchs......

'CORE STARTS REGULAR SEASON ON WINNING NOTE--GOES 2-0-1

 

MARLBORO, MA--- The Bruins Annual Shootout Tournament was the scene for the start of the 2008-9 Jr  B Empire season, and the 'Core did not disappoint their fans. After a successful pre-season slate where the team went 9-0-1, the team continued it's winning ways going 2-0-1 for the weekend, good for 5 points in the standings. "The team was focused in practice all week" stated Assistant Coach Larry Nastasi. Zach Lokey opened the scoring for the 'Core in the first minute against the South Shore Kings. Mike Cambria assisted on the play. Lokey scored again on assists from Billy Pascalli and Cambria. The team ended the first half with a 2-0 lead. In the 2nd half, Cambria scored again 1:04 into the period, on assists from Kevin Kavanagh and Kyle Zelanka. Billy Pascalli made it 4-0 on the PP on assists from Cambria and Lokey. Frank Saad finished the scoring on the PP on assists from Kevin Kavanagh and Cambria. Zach Gomiela stopped all 20 shots he faced for the 5-0 shutout.

 

In the second game of the weekend, the 'Core faced the tough NE Huskies. The Huskies scored first and had the only goal of the first half. The game was fast paced and a very tough going out there with many hits and tough plays. With 3:29 gone by in the 2nd half, Mike Cambria scored on the PP on a Billy Pascalli assist. With the score tied 1-1, Mike Mascaro scored the game winner on a Vic Dzenis and Frank Saad assists. John Layton was very good in net stopping 16 of the 17 shots he faced. The 2-1 win gave the 'Core a 2-0 start and set up the "Big Game" vs. the defending Champion Junior Bruins.

 

The game against the Bruins did not start well for the 'Core, they were quickly down 2-0. With the Bruins on the PP, Danny Kaplan scored on a short-handed breakaway to cut the score to 2-1. Mike Smith assisted on the play. With a little more confidence, the team started to play much harder. With 5 minutes left in the first half, Billy Pascalli tied the score at 2-2, on assists by Mike Cambria and Vic Dzenis. The 'Core took the lead 3-2 on another Cambria goal. The Bruins tied the game at 3-3 with 7 minutes left in the game. The teams both had chances to win the game in OT, but the score ended tied at 3. Zach Gomiela played well in net. "The team showed a lot of character coming back from a 2-0 deficit" stated Coach Lazar. The 3-3 tie kept the 'Core undefeated for the 2008-9 season, going 11-0-2 along the way.

 

APPLE SAUCE.....The team travels to Rochester next week for two games..... The 'Core has killed off all 11 power plays it has faced this year......On the injury front, Alex Hong will be out 2 weeks with a mild concussion.....

JR 'B' SELECTS SWEEP HITMEN SHOWCASE

 

WAYNE, NJ----- For the third straight week, the 'Core Jr B team played well and swept a showcase. The showcase, hosted by the Hitmen, featured games against Team Maryland, The NJ Rockets and NJ Titans.

In the first game, the 'Core played against a tough Maryland team who easily won their other two games, not allowing a goal. The 'Core scored first, as Billy Pascalli tipped in a Jesse Trap point shot. With the score tied at 1-1, Alex Hong scored on a wrist shot from the point. The 'Core took a 3-1 lead with 1 minute left in the first half as Dillan Fox and Frank Saad teamed up on a nice 2 on 1 shorthanded play. With the score 3-1, Zach Lokey scored shorthanded on a Pascalli assist. Zach Gomiela played well in net. In the Saturday tilt, the opponent was the NJ Rockets. The 'Core was flying right from the start and would wind up out shooting the Rockets 37-15 in a 4-1 win. Frank Saad opened the scoring on Kevin Kavanagh and Dillan Fox assists on the PP. The score was 1-0 at the half. In the second half, Dillan Fox scored shorthanded again on a Vic Dzenis assist to give the 'Core a 2-0 lead. With the score 2-1, Mike Cambria

scored with 2 minutes left in the game on a Zach Lokey assist to give the 'Core a 3-1 lead. Frank Saad iced the game with a minute left for the 4-1 win. On Sunday, the 'Core would play a re-match of last Sunday's game in Wall, NJ. vs. The NJ Titans. This was an even game for the most part. The 'Core opened the scoring on the PP as Zach Lokey scored on a Mike Cambria assist. With the score 2-1 Titans, Rob Molinaro flew in to the Titan zone and snapped in a goal to tie the game at 2-2. Five minutes later, Mike Cambria scored the game winner on a rebound of a Zach Lokey LOW shot. Frank Saad iced the game with an empty net shorthanded goal to make the final 4-2. The 'Core received great goaltending from John Layton. In the last 8 games, the 'Core has allowed only 11 goals against.

The team opens their Empire League schedule next weekend in the Bruins shootout with games against South Shore, the Huskies and tough Jr Bruins.

'CORE JR B SWEEPS TITANS SHOWCASE

 

WALL TOWNSHIP, NJ--- For the second straight week, the Apple Core Jr B machine has remained undefeated in plowing through MET League Jr B teams. The Titans Showcase held in the "newly renovated" Wall Ice Arena featured every possible problem ranging from weather to flies. After sorting out bad ice, broken clocks and zambonis and awful admin., the Jr B team played very well in the 3 and 1/4 games they played. The first game was supposed to be vs. the NJ Avalanche and ex-AC coach and player Bryan Reilly. The score was 1-1 midway through the first half when the holes in the ice and chunks of ice breaking off, forced the canceling of the rest of the game. The game will be made up later in the season. Initial reports that Reilly came down the night before to sabotage the ice were unfounded. The "2nd" game of the day had the 'Core playing the tough Valley Forge Minutemen. The game featured the AC third jerseys. The first half was dominated by the 'Core. Goals by Frank Saad, Billy Pascalli and Dillan Fox led the way. The period ended 3-1 'Core. The second half featured smart play by the 'Core limiting the Minutemen to very few second half shots. The game ended 3-1. After swimming to the hotel at 1 AM the team got very little sleep and on Sunday had two tough games with the Jr Flyers and NJ Titans. Both teams had not lost in the showcase at that point. In the Jr Flyers game, Zach Lokey opened the scoring with 2 goals in 20 seconds on Billy Pascalli assists.  Frank Saad added the third goal early in the 2nd half. The 'Core got a little sloppy in allowing a goal with 7 minutes left in the game and the Flyers made it 3-2 with :53 seconds left, but the 'Core scored an empty net goal by Lokey with :04 left in the game. John Layton played well in net. "The DF has been playing great" stated Assistant Coach Larry Nastasi. After a team meal at the Olive Garden, the 'Core would play the 3-0 Titans. The 'Core was at the top of their game beating the Titans 5-0. Rob Molinaro opened the scoring on the PP with assists going to Steve Romano and Chris Joseph. Five minutes later, Kevin Kavanagh converted on the PP, assisted by Mike Smith and Matt Kavanagh. Less then a minute later Dylan Scarpato quickly figured out the degree of difficulty and resistance factors in scoring off a Mike Brennan pass. The two Chaminade classmates have built in computers in their helmets like the Terminator. Out on work release from the school, they really played well with linemate Mike Mascaro. In the second half, Scarpato scored again on the PP. The 'Core scored 5 PP goals and 1 shorthanded goal over the weekend. Zach Lokey scored the 5th goal late in the game on Pascalli and Mike Cambria assists. Goalie

Zach Gomiela an accomplished dancer who plays hockey on weekends, played well in recording the shutout. The 'Core allowed only (4) goals all weekend, while scoring 13. The 'Core next plays in the Hitmen Showcase, with League games beginning the following weekend at the Bruins Shootout.

 

APPLESAUCE....Kathy Scarpato did a great job organizing the team lunch.....Thanks to Sean Edwards for his help this weekend.....The team will use their third jerseys in home events until they lose with them. The team is 3-0 with them......Steve Romano Sr. got lost again using his GPS.......No injuries to report.....

JUNIOR 'B' PLAYERS TO WORK WITH PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED PLAYERS

 

 LONG BEACH, NY--- The NY AC Empire Jr B team will be undertaking a very worthwhile cause this year in working with the NY Raptors Hockey Club, based out of the Westchester Skating Academy. The Raptors are an organization dedicated to working with physically and mentally challenged hockey players of all ages. The Raptors are run by Ed Mikus and are Coached by Liz Truly and her staff. There are about 30-35 players in the program which only skates on Sundays. "I want my players to understand what it is to give back to others who aren't as fortunate as they are" stated Apple Core Coach Henry Lazar. These players need individual attention and range in age from 7 to adults. Fun is a major part of the practices as devised by Liz and her coaches. The Apple Core players will assist the coaches and instruct and work with individual skills with the players. "I am looking forward to this challenge and hope I can contribute in a positive way" stated Co-Captain Steve Romano. Coach Lazar will take 4-5 players each time to assist in the practices. Hopefully the Raptor players will look up to the Junior players. The Junior players will also participate in the scrimmages they have at the end of the practices. The 'Core hopes that they will be able to help out at least 1 X a month during the season and maybe more depending on their schedule. Photos and interviews will be available on the Empire B team website.

APPLECORE EMPIRE JR B SELECTS WIN BREWSTER TOURNAMENT

 

BREWSTER, NY--- The Jr B Empire Selects opened their 2008 season with a tournament win in Brewster over the Labor Day weekend. A representative field of teams all played each other 1 X and the 'Core finished 1st with a 3-0-1 record. The opponents were the Brewster Bulldogs, Seacoast Kings Prep. Team, Metro Moose and the NJ Wildcats. The team had practiced hard over the prior two weeks at camp and in practice and were ready to play all comers. The first game vs. the Brewster team had the 'Core playing against many ex-'Core players. The 'Core's PP was in mid-season form, scoring 3X. Goals by Mike Brennan, Mike Cambria and Chris Joseph led the way. Cambria tallied (2) goals for the game. The game winner with 2:22 left in the game came from behind the net on a billiard shot by Rob Molinaro. Zach Gomiela played well in net. Frank Saad had (2) assists for the 'Core. In the second game against the Seacoast Kings the 'Core got off to a rough start. The team was down 3-0 when Matt Kavanagh made a great rush down the ice, drawing 3 Kings over to him as he fed a wide open Steve Romano for the 1st 'Core goal. Down 4-1 at the half, the locker room was a little somber, but all players agreed to meet the challenge, and meet it they did. A nice goal by Billy Pascalli made the score 4-2, then Mike Cambria scored (2) PP goals in less then a minute to tie the score at 4-4. CHA call-up Bill Freely scored the go-ahead goal with 6 minutes to play, but the Kings tied the score at 5-5 with 4 minutes to play. "The team showed tremendous character in coming back from a 4-1 deficit" stated Coach Henry Lazar. The third game of the weekend was against the Metro Moose. The Moose with many ex-'Core players, a much older team was the game the team was looking forward to all weekend. Ex-'Core players Sean McAllister and Brendan Tracy led the way for the Moose.

The 'Core took a 1-0 lead in the 1st half when Mike Brennan scored off a Steve Romano assist. After McAllister tied the game 1-1 for the Moose, Chris Joseph scored on the PP to give the 'Core a 2-1 lead. Zach Lokey and Mike Cambria assisted on the play. Dillan Fox scored the third goal on an assist from Frank Saad.  Mike Cambria tallied again on the PP off a great Zach Lokey feed to make the score 4-1. The Moose took 13 penalties to the 'Core's 4. "The 'Core played disciplined and that was the difference" added Associate Coach Larry Nastasi. John Layton played very well in net. The 'Core outshot the Moose 42-15 in the game. In the final game of the tournament, the 'Core played against tough Empire rival NJ Wildcats. The 'Core controlled the entire game for a 6-1 win. Billy Pascalli (Hat Trick), Matt Kavanagh, Kevin Kavanagh & Dillan Fox had the goals. Zach Lokey had (2) helpers for the 'Core. John Layton played well again in net allowing only (2) goals for the (2) games. "The 'Core really played well on Sunday and showed a lot of character" stated Special Assistant Coach Sean Edwards.

 

Apple Sauce.....The Buffet was terrible claimed Kerry Zelanka and Mike Kaplan who were forced to eat that junk. "At $3 it would have been a rip-off, they claimed......Congrats to the CHA team and Coach Tom Carroll. They won the C level and also went 3-0-1 in winning that division.....Steve Romano Sr. can't drive 3 miles without getting lost. He can't even follow the GPS.....Kevin Kavanagh's Sunday goal was his first as a Junior player.....The 'Core scored 7 PP goals and 1 shorthanded goal. The 'Core only allowed 1 PP goal all weekend.....The team will resume practice Tuesday....The 'Core next attends the Titans Tournament in NJ next weekend. Ex-Core coach and player Brian Reilly will lead his NJ Avalanche against the 'Core next Saturday.....

LONG BEACH, NY---

    The Junior B Selects (Empire Jr B Hockey League) officially opened their state of the art locker room this week as their preseason camp began.
    The room is very big, has spacious stalls, has great sight lines, and is very player friendly. A great stereo system, dehumidifier, personal slotted stick rack, bathrobes for showers, and ample hooks for all equipment. The new carpet includes a great color Apple Core logo and there is plenty of room. The attached video room will be used for video analysis with the new software Apple Core has purchased. Message boards and rink diagrams for instruction are included on the walls as well as the 150 College plaques on the alumni wall. Ample clocks and a supply closet are also included. The coaches even have their own stalls.

    The players divide the jobs up of vacuuming the room and keeping the room neat and clean. The room built by John Mascaro and his staff is really a great addition for the Apple Core family.  

ROCKVILLE CENTER, NY--- The Junior B Selects Empire team had their annual Barbecue last weekend at the Gomiela's. Included in the backyard were a three hole putting green, basketball court, swimming pool,  Jacuzzi, and skate board ramp. The weather was great and the food great. Parents did the barbecuing, and each family brought a dish for the day. The desserts were great and so was the atmosphere. "The parents all got to know each other"stated Don Scarpato. "The players all bonded and really like being with each other" added DF Chris Joseph. The players went out Monday on their Jet Skis and some went to the beach the other day. "They are all hanging out with each other" stated Associate Coach Larry Nastasi.

"These get-togethers are very important for team unity and for the younger players to learn how to be a rookie and interact with the older players" added GM/Head Coach Henry Lazar. The coaches also had short meetings with each player to go over their first week on the team and give and take feedback from the week long camp the team just completed. Of course the mothers were all helpful in serving, etc. Estrelita Dzenis and Mary Kavanagh helped out a lot. All the Kavanagh kids were there too. It was just a great day and all the players and parents left very happy. Thanks, again to the Gomiela's for their hospitality
 

ZELANKA DOES WELL AT USA HOCKEY SELECT 15 FESTIVAL

 

ST. CLOUD, MN--- AC Jr B Selects DF Kyle Zelanka, a '93 rookie on the AC Jr B team recently returned home from St. Cloud after participating in the USA Select 15 festival. Zelanka, a 5'11" 150 lbs. defenseman from Hewlett, NY scored a game winning goal in the first game and played well the entire week. Kyle has played at AC for most of his hockey career and is moving up to Juniors from Bantams. "Kyle is a very smart DF who has the potential to be a very good DF" stated Larry Nastasi his DF coach on the AC Junior team.

"Playing at AC will really help me"stated Zelanka. "The tradition is great, and the older players who always come back to skate keep me working harder to be the best I can be". Zelanka will be a sophomore at Lynbrook HS this fall as he plays on Coach Henry Lazar's Junior B Empire team.

 

 

LONG BEACH, NY----The Empire Jr B team completed their 6 day camp with a strong finish Friday as the team prepared for the upcoming season. The team worked hard in the roller rink with team play and strategy, on the ice with all facets of the game and off-ice with conditioning and work ethic training. As the new locker room was christened this week, the team was revved up for action. Captains Kevin Kavanagh and Steve Romano led the troops through many parts of the off-ice workouts and locker room preparations. The team worked hard all week on the ice focusing in on the fundamentals of the game. "We will be very good in team play and play smart hockey" stated GM/Head Coach Henry Lazar, who moved down from the Jr A EJ team to work with the younger players. "The players all understand that discipline, total focus and maturity will be the factors for success. We will have one of the youngest teams in the Empire League so we have to play smarter and quicker hockey then the older veteran laden teams" added Lazar. The goaltending tandem of Zach Gomiela and John Layton have done well all spring and are ready for League play. DF Vic Dzenis, Alex Hong, Mike Iacono, Chris Joseph, Kevin Kavanagh, Jesse Trap, Kyle Zelanka and Mike Smith

have been working hard on their DF zone play and have done particularly well on 1 on 1 and breakout situations. The forwards are communicating well and are gelling as units. "All 12 forwards are looking good" added Associate Coach Larry Nastasi. Mike Brennan, Mike Cambria, Dillan Fox, Danny Kaplan, Matt Kavanagh, Zach Lokey, Mike Mascaro, Rob Molinaro, Billy Pascalli, Steve Romano, Frank Saad, and Dylan Scarpato have really clicked on the 2 on 1 and 3 on 2 situations. All the players and coaches are anxiously awaiting the start of the season.

 

APPLE SAUCE......The team Barbecue will be held at the Gomiela's......DF Kyle Zelanka did real well at the Select 15 festival.....The team opens up their exhibition slate at the Brewster Showcase Aug. 30 and 31.....Thanks go out to John Mascaro who really built the locker room. John did a great job designing the best locker room in the League. John also handles special projects for Apple Core. Complete with video room and great sight lines, the final touch of the AC logo in the middle of the room added the class the players deserve......The organization is very strong this year. Jr A Coach Chris Cosentino has brought in 15 top players from outside the area to compliment the 10 local players and vets he felt could play EJ hockey....CHA .Coach Tom Carroll has 23 hard working young players who hope to move up through the ranks in the organization.......The Empire players are doing various team building activities as the players really bond and get to know each other......The B team third jerseys will debut soon.